How to Choose a Doormat

They're referred to as "welcome mats" for a reason—door mats greet guests right at the door, sometimes before they enter the home and sometimes just upon entering. Your choice of mat should be an expression of your personality and your home decor—a taste of what's to come inside. It doesn't need to be a serious piece of decor, like an area rug. It can be fun and playful. Look for multiple options you can switch out seasonally. Consider pastels in the spring, vibrant colors, or patriotic red, white and blue in the summer. Set the mood with holiday-themed designs in the fall and winter. Whichever style with which you choose to adorn your doorstep, keep in mind that door mats are designed first and foremost to keep the elements out of your home—dirt from the street, moisture, foreign objects such as rocks and more. Look for designs meant to endure in heavy foot traffic and those that are strong and durable without sacrificing style.

What to Look for in Rug Material

PVC, Polyester and Polypropylene are strong, long-lasting materials that won't crack or mildew. Approved for both indoor and outdoor use, they naturally wick away water and make rugs both UV-stable and soil resistant. Look for a nonskid rubber backing for the safest arrangement.

Coir, made from coconut husk, is a naturally absorbent fiber. When woven together, the coir fibers will capture and trap dirt, and the coarseness lends itself perfectly to wiping clean the bottoms of shoes. Keep just outside your front or patio door to keep your entryways free of dirt.

Teak, when sustainably sourced, is an eco-friendly wood that naturally diverts moisture and debris. Not only is it not slippery when wet, but the wood is an unexpected material, making the door mat a sophisticated statement piece that exudes modernity.